Home & Garden Spring 2018 by The Daily Star

HOME & GARDEN A Publication of The Daily Star, Wednesday, March 21, 2018

2 Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

MARCH 21, 22 AND 23, 2018

Garden centers and clubs can encourage a

inter storms may have put a damper on the urge to start gardening, but there might be an upside to that. Planting too early outside increases the chances of frost kill. But that doesn’t mean the spirit of spring planting is stopped. Seed starter kits and all the paraphernalia required to grow plants are available at garden centers for those do-it-yourself gardeners. Local greenhouses will soon plant seeds inside. Experts remind us not to plant outside, unless the plants are protected, until Memorial Day. Education and information on spring planting and gardening are available. Local Master Gardener programs

are offered by Cooperative Extension through Cornell University. The program provides horticultural training to individuals who then volunteer as master gardeners in their communities by giving lectures, creating gardens, conducting research, and doing many other projects. Master gardeners complete a 10week training class in conjunction with CCE of Otsego and Schoharie Counties. The program became active in Delaware County last year. Those interested should call 865-6531 for more information. Another outlet for “garden talk” is the Franklin Garden Club, established about 16 years ago. The 35-member club has no membership dues, no officers and no scheduled meetings. Members

Deborah Banks gardens at her Franklin home.

FILE PHOTO

have potluck gatherings or meet to place plants in the barrels along Main Street in Franklin. They also meet to sell plants. The club hosts lectures and a garden tour. Club member Deborah Banks told The Daily Star last year, “We have a lot of fun together at our meetings and share the pride of achieving our goals.” Savvy gardeners know they all started at the bottom of the learning scale. “The garden club has a lot to be proud of, including getting grants that enabled us to plant trees throughout the village, planting perennials, shrubs and small trees in the Franklin park, hosting a winter lecture series for two years, and organizing a popular bi-annual garden tour in the Franklin area,” Banks said. “We also have raised money to support these projects and others benefiting the Franklin community.” Banks recommends gardening because, “Gardening is satisfying on so many levels. It connects you with other living things, gets you outside in all kinds of weather, and lets you enjoy watching plants grow that you yourself started from seed or planted as small seedlings.” She added, “You can swear at deer and groundhogs instead of politicians, and blame your dirty house on all the time you spend in the garden.” Another active garden club is the Butternut Valley Garden Club, which recently celebrated its 90th year as a federated garden club. BVGC is a member of New York State Federated Garden Clubs, Central Atlantic Region and National Garden Clubs Inc. Since its inception, the club has pursued its mission to stimulate interest in

“Gardening is satisfying on so many levels. It connects you with other living things, gets you outside in all kinds of weather, and lets you enjoy watching plants grow that you yourself started from seed or planted as small seedlings.” Deborah Banks

gardening, encourage protection of native plants and preserve the beauty of local woodlands and roadsides, members said. The club also aims to pique interest in environmental concerns. “We are a small but mighty group,” said Anne Sebeck of Gilbertsville, who co-chairs BVGC with Kathy Hartman, also of Gilbertsville. The club has 16 members. In support of its mission, the club carries out numerous projects throughout the year. “The club has become very civic-minded,” Sebeck said. In the interest of public education, the club places mission-related books dedicated to the memory of former club members in the Gilbertville and Morris public libraries. Reviews of books selected by BVGC appear in the Village Library of Morris’s quarterly newsletter. Another library-related project is the beautification of the Gilbertsville and Morris libraries themselves. From spring through late fall, club members volunteer weekly to place floral arrangements from their own gardens in both libraries. The group also monitors and replac-

MARCH 21, 22 AND 23, 2018

Stephen Novellano serves Thomas and Donna VanSickell at Sweet Meadows Country Home and Garden Center.

FILE PHOTO

Now offering Ethanol Free Gasoline!

298993

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

es bluebird houses in Brookside Cemetery in Gilbertsville and Hillington Cemetery in Morris. Since 1986, in cooperation with the villages of Gilbertsville and Morris, the group has been involved in street plantings. Over the last 30 years, 96 trees have been planted along village streets on Arbor Day, funded by BVGC. The trees are native to New York state. Two seasonal greening efforts have been ongoing in Gilbertsville and Morris for 65 years. They include sponsoring and maintaining window boxes and planters in the spring and arranging and placing wreaths, swags and garlands for local churches, public buildings and gardens in the winter. The latest such effort took place on Thursday, when members met at Christ Church to put together holiday greenery and share a covered-dish lunch. Preserving a sense of history is yet another objective of the club. The group maintains a Victorian planting in Hillington Cemetery Park. The planting was designed and installed by club members in memory of member Laura Palmer. In Gilbertsville, the club has, since 1995, cared for a garden in The Overlook, a park located at the intersection of state Route 51 and Commercial Avenue. BVGC also promotes vegetable gardening at both Gilbertsville-Mount Upton and Morris central schools, Sebeck said.

MARCH 21, 22 AND 23, 2018

Suggestions when shopping for fencing Restrictions

Fences can improve functionality of a yard and provide extra security and privacy. Some fences are decorative while others are functional. Families with children and/or companion animals also may find fencing is a necessity to keep everyone safe and corralled. With a vast array of fencing materials available, homeowners may find it challenging to decide which material is right for their properties. The following breakdown can help homeowners learn more about fencing and potentially point them in the right direction regarding which material to choose for their properties.

It is important to understand local regulations before installing fencing. Communities governed by homeowners’ associations may have rules in place that dictate the type of fences that can be installed. Townships and other municipalities may have their own rules concerning fence type, property borders, fence height, and other factors that will have to be adhered to so that fencing will meet code. If such rules are not following fines may be imposed and the fence may have to be removed. Homeowners also may need permits to install fencing, whether they are hiring a contractor or doing the work themselves.

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

Budget Budget is one of the first considerations many homeowners have when installing fencing. Pricing will affect whether one can afford a chain link fence (one of the most budget-friendly options), wrought iron or ornate wood (more expensive). Pricing out several different types of fences will give homeowners an idea of which material fits into their budgets.

Maintenance

Purpose Homeowners install fencing for various reasons. If a fence is an ornamental way to delineate property lines, a picket fence or a post-and-rail fence are simple options that can lend a homey feel to a property. These types of fences also can enhance and frame landscaping elements, such as gardens. In many area, laws require homeowners to install

fencing around swimming pools. In such instances, chain link fencing that does not obstruct views of the pool might be the best choice. If security or privacy is the main desire, tall fences that make it difficult for neighbors to see into the yard may make an ideal choice.

Consumer resource Angie’s List advises homeowners to consider maintenance before choosing a fencing material. Wooden fencing requires the most maintenance due to painting and staining. Aluminum or vinyl fencing requires less maintenance, but it can be harder to repair isolated damage or replace pickets, if necessary. In some instances, the entire fence may have to be replaced. Homeowners install fencing for many different reasons. Considering price, budget, purpose, and maintenance before making a decision regarding fencing can help homeowners make the best decision possible.

CLAPPER CONSTRUCTION, LLC “Quality you can trust.”

Over 18 years experience 18 in the roofing industry FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES S

ow • Wind g n i id

s • Insulation • Doo rs

SPECIALIZING IN ROOFING

Dependable Communication | Cost/Time Control Competitive Value | Attention to Detail

We offer Senior Citizen and Military Discounts. We are Lead Certified

• Gu tters • Decking

Otego, NY

607-434-1512

www.clapperconstructionNY.com Accepting All Major Credit Cards

MARCH 21, 22 AND 23, 2018

Items to improve

he popularity of outdoor living spaces has been growing for years. A 2014 study from the home remodeling and design platform Houzz found that 56 percent of homeowners were making updates to improve their yards for entertaining. Similarly, nearly 60 percent of architectural practices surveyed by the American Institute of Architects in 2016 said outdoor living spaces were popular features in the homes they built. Outdoor living spaces may also be sound investments for homeowners looking to improve the resale value of their properties. According to Remodeling magazine’s 2017 “Cost vs. Value” report, outdoor living spaces returned between 55 and 71 percent of homeowners’ initial investments at resale.

When planning an outdoor living space, homeowners with ample backyards have much to work with. However, to make the most of the space while simultaneously hoping to get as strong a return on their investments as possible, homeowners should look to create spaces that offer broad appeal and are not too personalized. The following are some popular outdoor living space features homeowners may want to consider.

functional outdoor entertaining space.

Outdoor kitchens

Warming features

Outdoor kitchens allow homeowners to prepare more than just traditional backyard barbecue fare. A standalone charcoal grill in the backyard might get the job done, but a built-in gas grill complete with burners and surrounding granite countertop makes for a more

Bars Indoor entertaining areas often include bars, so it makes sense that homeowners want to include a place to prepare and serve beverages to their guests. Homeowners with room in their budgets may want to install wet bars where they can rinse mixers, glasses and other items needed to prepare drinks for their guests. Features that can keep homeowners and their guests warm after the sun sets include outdoor fireplaces and firepits. A 2016 survey conducted by the American Society of Landscape Architects found that fireplaces and firepits were the most popular outdoor design ele-

ment in 2016. Such features can provide a focal point in the backyard while also extending the outdoor living season into autumn and even early winter.

Porch space Outdoor living spaces are often found in the backyard, but homeowners with bigger front yards than backyards may want to expand or open their porch spaces to create more space outside. Porch swings and rocking chairs provide a great place to relax, and porch spaces are covered, meaning homeowners can continue to enjoy time outside even when it begins to rain. Outdoor living spaces are growing in popularity. Homeowners who want to capitalize on this trend can do so in various ways.

“We Gotcha Covered!”

WEBSTER’S PAVING Blacktop, Stone & Oil, Sealing & Patching

–––––– COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL ––––––

(607) 432-8550 • (607) 334-4849

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

outdoor living spaces

6 MARCH 21, 22 AND 23, 2018 Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

The right fertilizer for your needs

or plants to truly flourish, the right growing conditions and soil that offers the right nutrients is of paramount importance. Fertilizer enhances soil so that plants and flowers can

thrive. However, fertilizer is not a one-size-fits-all mix. Choosing fertilizer can be a little overwhelming thanks to the variety of formulations available at neighborhood lawn and garden centers. Shelves

contain all-purpose products, such as those billed as vegetable fertilizer, and even formulations geared toward specific flower varieties. Others may feature buzz words like “all-natural” or “organic,” and consumers may not be sure just what they need to keep plants healthy. The following guidelines can help any would-be gardener or landscaper grow more vibrant plants. Start with a soil test It’s difficult to determine what plants need without an accurate picture of what’s going on in the ground. A soil test can paint a picture of what’s going on and indicate if any nutrients are lacking. A common misconception is that gardeners fertilize plants. But fertilizer amends the soil that feeds plants, according to the soil-testing lab professionals at Virginia Tech. Soil types vary by region, and conditions may even vary between spots on a landscape. Testing where the plants will be placed can yield the most accurate results. Soil

tests are available at gardening centers and online. Otherwise, landscaping professionals can conduct tests. Know the N-P-K ratio Most fertilizers will come with information concerning the nutrients within. Most notably it will have a breakdown of how much nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and potassium (K) is in the mix. Judging by the soil test, gardeners can choose a product that will give them the right ratio to amend the soil for the type of plant they are hoping to grow. Complete fertilizers often have NPK in the formulation. Incomplete fertilizers may have only one or two nutrients. This allows a person to customize fertilizer even more without overdoing it with a particular nutrient. Grow plant knowledge A cursory knowledge of the plants being planted in the garden also can be helpful. Gardeners must recognize that some plants will not tolerate excess amounts of a particular fertiliz-

er component, while some may need more. Checking books out of the library, seeking information online and consulting with landscaping experts will help expand homeowners’ knowledge about plant types and the needs of each particular plant they hope to grow. Solid and liquid fertilizer Fertilizers are generally sold in pellets, spikes and liquid forms. Pellets or granules are dispersed over large areas and will gradually offer nutrients when the soil is watered. Liquid fertilizer is concentrated and fast-acting. These may be used for container plants or smaller areas. Spikes usually are placed in houseplants or to feed individual trees or shrubs. Depending on the formulation, fertilizer may need to be reapplied once a month or more. Consult the product packaging for the correct application advice. Fertilizer amends soil to grow stronger, more resilient plants.

Bieritz Insurance Agency

Opening For The Season th Thursday, March 29 !

Your “Hometown” Insurance Specialists! HOME • AUTO BUSINESS • LIFE FARM • BOAT • CYCLE & MORE See the difference we can make by calling for a free quote today Representing over 20 companies 1420-352378

Open 7 Days A Week Fully Stocked with Produce & Everything For Your Gardening Needs and

So Much More!

Rte. 7, East End, Oneonta • 607-432-7905 All Major Credit Cards Accepted & EBT (Snap)

209 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY Office: 607-547-2951 www.BieritzInsurance.com Also - Morris Insurance Agency, 128 Main Street, Morris, NY 607-263-5170 www.MorrisInsuranceNY.com

the average number of spring fires per year decreased by 36.7 percent, from 2,649 in 2009, to 1,677 in 2016. Campfires using charcoal or untreated wood are allowed, but people should never leave such fires unattended and must extinguish them, officials said. Burning garbage or leaves is prohibited year-round. Some towns, primarily in and around the Adirondack and Catskill parks, are designated “fire towns.” Open burning is prohibited year-round in those municipalities unless an individual or group has a written permit from DEC. To find out whether a municipality is designated a “fire town” or to obtain a permit, contact the appropriate DEC regional office. A list of regional offices is available on DEC’s website. Violators of the state’s open burning regulation are subject to both criminal and civil enforcement actions, with a minimum fine of $500 for a first offense. To report environmental law violations call 1-800-TIPP DEC (1-800-847-7332), or report online on DEC’s website.

ASBURY GARDENS

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

tures can quickly cause wildfire conditions to arise. the release said. DEC will post a fire danger map rating forecast daily for the 2018 fire season on its website and on the NY Fishing, Hunting & Wildlife App available on the website. Currently, fire conditions in most of the state are low-risk. Open burning of debris is the largest single cause of spring wildfires in New York, officials said. When temperatures are warmer and the past fall’s debris and leaves dry out, wildfires can start and spread easily and be further fueled by winds and a lack of green vegetation. New York first enacted restrictions on open burning in 2009 to help prevent wildfires and reduce air pollution. The regulations allow residential brush fires in towns with fewer than 20,000 residents during most of the year, but prohibit such burning in spring when most wildfires occur. In the eight-year period since the ban was established, the release said,

MARCH 21, 22 AND 23, 2018

Spring is a time for cleaning up yards and gardens, but state officials say we should not plan to burn yard waste for a while. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos announced recently that with spring approaching and conditions for wildfires heightened, residential brush burning is prohibited through May 14 across the state. “While many people associate wildfires with the western United States, the start of spring weather and the potential for dry conditions increases the risk for wildfires in New York,” Seggos said, in a media release. “New York prohibits residential burning during the high-risk fire season to reduce wildfires and protect people, property, and natural resources. The ban has been extremely effective in reducing the number of wildfires, and we’re encouraging New Yorkers to put safety first.” Even though much of the state is blanketed in snow, warming tempera-

DEC announces ban on outdoor burning

NEW NEWNEW NEWASBURY ASBURY GARDENS ASBURY GARDENS NEW DIVISIONGARDENS

ABC Plumbing

Licensed & Fully Insured

DESIGN/BUILD LANDSCAPING

NEW NEW DIVISION WINDOWS • SIDING • DIVISION ROOFING WINDOWS • SIDING • ROOFING WINDOWS • SIDING • ROOFING DECKS • EXTERIOR PAINTING DECKS • EXTERIOR PAINTING DECKS • EXTERIOR PAINTING

Heating & Air Treatment Are Our Specialty The guys at ABC Plumbing would like to thank everyone for their loyalty and support. You’re more than customers, you’re friends! We appreciate everything.

(607) 433-5214 72 Hudson St, Oneonta, NY 13820

OPEN IN APRIL! (weather permitting... call ahead)

OPEN IN APRIL! OPEN IN APRIL! (weather permitting... call ahead)

permitting... call ahead) Get A Jump(weather On Your Spring Clean-Up! Mulching and Edging Get AGet Jump OnOn Your Clean-Up! A Jump YourSpring Spring Clean-Up! and Sealingand Services For Mulching Get A JumpCleaning On Your Spring Clean-Up! Mulching andEdging Edging Walks andSealing Patios, Services For Cleaning and Cleaning and And Sealing Services For Mulching and Edging Pond Clean-Up Walks and More! Patios,

Walks and Patios, Cleaning Sealing Services For Visitand us online at www.newasburygardens.com Pond Clean-Up And Pond Clean-Up And More! More! Walks and Patios, Visit us at www.newasburygardens.com Visitonline us online at www.newasburygardens.com 248 RIVER ST., ONEONTA Pond Clean-Up And More! Visit us online at www.newasburygardens.com 248 RIVER 607-432-8703 248 RIVERST., ST., ONEONTA ONEONTA

607-432-8703 607-432-8703 248 RIVER ST., ONEONTA

8 MARCH 21, 22 AND 23, 2018 Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

Surviving a home renovation

Homeowners invest large sums into improving their homes to make them more comfortable living spaces or to increase their odds of selling quickly. The Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University predicted U.S. spending on home renovations and repairs to peak at $327 billion in 2017. Whether one is doing a large renovation or a small remodel, life may be turned upside down during the project. Furniture may be moved out of the room, walls may be demolished, water or electricity may be turned off, and appliances may be missing or not hooked up. Home improvements often drum up dust and disarray. Such projects can try the patience of any homeowner, and things may get worse before they get better. Even though remodeling can be taxing, the end result is often worth it. Here’s how to look forward to the silver lining and come out unscathed. Discuss the project before it starts. All family members should be in agreement before the first hammer is swung. Decide on as many details as you can ahead of time and have a firm plan in place. Establish back-up choices for tiles or color schemes in case the items you want are out of stock. Trying to make decisions under duress may result in bad choices. Do one project at a time. It’s tempting to want to improve as much as possible at once to maximize motivation and renovation materials. However, having no place in which to escape the mess can elevate stress levels. Do not think about renovating kitchens and bathrooms all at once, or you will not have any working fixtures for tasks like washing up. Have everything in place. Before demolition even begins, have building materials bought and stored, contractors and subcontractors lined up, and see what you can do to minimize the time workers need to spend in your home. – but expect delays.

In a world where things move at lightning speeds, renovations have not gotten the memo. Home projects take lots of time and will likely take longer if you are doing the work yourself in your free time. Build lots of extra time into the project so you are not disappointed when delays happen — even when you’ve done your best to avoid them.

Planning, patience and an understanding of what the project entails can make home improvements easier to survive.

Plan an escape zone Construction environments can be messy, loud, smelly, and a host of other unsavory adjectives. The chaos that ensues when life is turned upside down can be overwhelming, particularly for the person who spends the most time in the home while work is being done. Build escape moments into the plan and make sure everyone else at home is on board. During the real grind of the project, a night or two at a hotel may be a welcome respite.

Weekend home improvement projects Home improvement projects ramp up when the weather warms up, as homeowners channel the rejuvenating feelings of spring and tackle their home to-do lists. Large-scale renovations can greatly affect a home, but smaller projects can yield impressive results and be completed over the course of a single weekend. If time is of the essence, these weekend or one-day projects may satisfy homeowners’ desires to fix up their homes. • Create an accent wall. Painting a focal wall in a home can create a serious impact. The bonus is it will not take as long or require as many materials as painting an entire room. Accent walls frequently feature a bold color, so decide on placement and tackle this project in less than a day. • Install stair runners. Dress up hardwood stairs with decorative carpet runners. Runners come in elongated pieces of carpeting or individual pieces that can be placed on each step. If carpeting doesn’t fit with the home’s design, painting individual stair treads also can create visual appeal. • Dress up the entryway. An entryway is a guest’s first impression of a home. Many entryways can use a minor overhaul, both inside and outside. Paint the front door a different color so it pops from the curb. Install a new mailbox or decorative house numbers. A new welcome mat can change the look as well. Inside, consider laying a new floor. Resilient vinyl tiles come in many different patterns and can mimic the look of

wood, travertine or marble. Installing a floor can take a day or two. • Install a new faucet. Instantly improve a kitchen or a bathroom with new fixtures. New faucets can provide aesthetic appeal and low-flow faucets can help conserve water. • Create a gallery on the staircase. Gather and arrange framed photos, artwork or wall accents so that they ascend the wall of a staircase. This creates a designer touch and can dress up an often barren area of wall space. • Install a fresh light fixture. Improve drab spaces with a little illumination. Better Homes & Gardens suggests replacing an existing fixture with something new and vibrant. If hanging a new fixture is not within one’s skill set, free-standing table or floor lamps also can cast a new glow on a space. • Add molding. Molding can add instant aesthetic appeal to a room. Molding is appropriate near the floor, at the top of walls where they meet the ceiling, or even mid-wall as a chair rail. Some homeowners like to create framed molding on walls in formal living spaces. • Update kitchen or bathroom hardware. Replacing hardware is a fast and easy project, but one that can have immediate impact. Swap out tired or outdated hardware for newer brushed metals and more impactful shapes and designs. Home renovations do not need to take weeks or months. Many projects can be completed over the course of a weekend.

MARCH 21, 22 AND 23, 2018

One oft-shared piece of pruning advice is that covering a newly pruned area with tar, paint or varnish can inhibit the fungal organisms that will get into the new cut, leading to a diseased tree, shrub or plant. This myth has been circulating for some time, according to the experts at Fine Gardening. Unfortunately, there is no surefire way to prevent microscopic organisms from infiltrating a new cut. The application of a wound dressing may even contribute to faster decay of heartwood. That’s because the tar or paint will keep moisture in the new cut, which helps fungus and other microorganisms grow. Instead of dressing wounds, read up on proper ways to prune and let plants employ their own natural defenses to heal and prevent decay.

G&R

Property Services, LLC We offer a full range of property services including: Mowing Plowing Construction Painting

Deck Building Brush Hogging Enclosed & Dump Trailer Services

Clean Outs for Commercial & Residential Pressure Washing Custom Furniture

If You Have A Job That Needs To Be Done, Give Us A Call For A Free Estimate!

Brian Jeff (607) 435-1326 520 Gifford Hill • Oneonta, NY (607) 434-1223

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

Did you know?

MARCH 21, 22 AND 23, 2018

Must-have kitchen

remodel features

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

Homeowners looking to renovate often see room for improvement in their kitchens and bathrooms. The National Association of Home Builder’s Remodeling Market Index Survey, which measures conditions in the remodeling market, indicates that, in 2015, the two most common remodeling jobs were bathroom remodels (81 percent) and kitchen remodels (79 percent). According to HGTV and Statistics Brain, a new kitchen remodel for a kitchen measuring 12 by 12 feet may cost homeowners anywhere from $17,000 to $37,000. Before investing so much into their remodeling projects, homeowners should think carefully about the features that will improve their time spent at home. When planning a kitchen renovation, homeowners may want to consider the following upgrades to make the room more enjoyable while improving its functionality. Oversized sink Although high-efficiency dishwashers are popular, deep sinks to soak soup pots or woks are still useful. Deep sinks may be preferable to double sinks, especially for homeowners who use lots of kitchen tools when preparing meals. Soft-closing hinges When replacing cabinets (or just the hardware), consider installing soft-closing hinges and slides on doors and drawers. These devices eliminate slamming and caught fingers, reducing noise and injuries in the kitchen. Foot-pedal water operation

Big Green Egg Patio Furniture & Fire Pits Durasol Awnings Pellet Stove Cleaning

email us at: hearthsafire@stny.rr.com 7352 State Hwy 23, Oneonta, NY • 607-436-9546 Hours: Sat. 9-5, Mon.-Fr. 9-5:30 • Visit us at www.hearthsafire.com

When outfitting a sink, think about foot controls, which are popular in doctors’ offices and hospitals. Turning on the water with the tap of a foot can reduce the transfer of pathogens to faucets from hands during food preparation. These pedals also free up hands for other tasks. Bottom’s up People likely spend more time raiding the refrigerator than the freezer on any given day. Rather than having to bend down to seek out that favorite flavor of Greek yogurt, choose a model with the fridge on top and freezer on the bottom, especially if anyone in the household has mobility issues. When shopping for refrigerators, French-door style units may offer even more access, making it easy for homeowners to slide fruit trays, sheet cakes and other large items into the fridge. Extra lighting A kitchen should be a balance of form and function. A combination of overhead lighting, decorative lighting and task lighting can illuminate all areas of the space effectively. Appliance garages Architectural and design resource Houzz says that appliance garages are popular kitchen additions, too. Set at countertop level, these cabinets allow people to keep small appliances plugged in but tucked neatly behind closed doors. Kitchen remodels are a sizable investment, and renovations can be customized to make the kitchen more hospitable for all in residence.

Gretna Gardens

beautiful perennials, annuals, trees, shrubs, hanging baskets, custom arrangements, fruits & veggie plants “We Make Your Day Beautiful” 2664 State Highway 7 • Otego, NY 607-267-1707

Open late April - July Mon - Sat 9AM to 6PM Sun 9AM to 5PM

STRENGTH

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

Potential threats to pets in your yard Pets love to roam free, and homeowners with outdoor space often let their pets get some exercise and play time in their backyards. While it’s important for pets like dogs and even some cats to get some time outdoors, pet owners should recognize the potential threats to pet health looming in their lawns and gardens. • Mulch: According to the Pet Poison Helpline, mulch made from cocoa beans can pose a threat to pets. This type of mulch is made of discarded hulls or shells of the cocoa bean. These byproducts of chocolate production contain varying concentrations of the toxins theobromine and caffeine. When ingested in high concentrations, these toxins can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and, in some instances, death. The amount of these toxins present in a given batch of this type of mulch may not be readily known, so homeowners should avoid applying it. • Slug and snail baits: The PPH notes that the active ingredient in slug and snail baits is metaldehyde, which is highly poisonous to cats and dogs. Symptoms of distress, including restlessness, vomiting, seizures, and high body temperature, can appear as soon as one hour after these baits are ingested. The baits are typically available in pellet, granular, powder, and liquid form, but each should be avoided by pet owners who allow their

pets to play in their yards. • Compost: Compost is a great and natural way to enrich soil. But compost piles should be cordoned off so curious pets cannot access them. As the organic matter within compost piles decomposes, mold can begin to grow. If ingested by pets, moldy materials inside compost piles can make pets sick in as little as 30 minutes. Pets who have ingested moldy compost may appear agitated, pant, drool, or vomit, and some may even suffer from tremors or seizures. • Flowers/plants: Of course, some flowers and plants can pose a threat to pets as well. Before planting new plants and/ or flowers in their gardens, homeowners should inquire at their local gardening center or speak with their veterinarians to confirm if the plants or flowers are safe to ingest. If not, do not plant them or plant them in raised garden beds that cannot be accessed by curious pets. • Fertilizers: Certain types of fertilizer also may be harmful to pets. According to the PPH, fertilizers that contain blood meal, bone meal, feather meal, and iron can be dangerous to dogs. When ingested in large doses, such products can form a concretion in the stomach, which can obstruct the gastrointestinal tract and cause severe pancreatitis. Fertilizers that are high in iron also can contribute to iron poisoning if ingested by pets.

GX54” D

GARDEN TRACTOR WITH FABRICATED DECK

• 26 HP†† Cub Cadetcertified Kohler® 7000 Series V-Twin OHV engine • 54” heavy-duty fabricated mowing deck (with lifetime deck shell warranty++) delivers the Cub Cadet Signature Cut™ • Foot-engaged locking differential

PRO Z 160 L EFI

PROFESSIONAL ZERO-TURN MOWER

• 27 HP†† Cub Cadetcertified Kohler® Confidant 747cc EFI engine • 60” deck with 10-gauge shell, 5/16” side reinforced and 1/4” leading edge • 12cc Hydro-Gear® ZT3400 transmission

in stock now

Challenger™ 700

CAMO UTILITY VEHICLE

• 686cc EFI Engine • Loaded standard equipment package • Fully engineered, reinforced frame, adjustable 4-wheel suspension and highstrength steering components • Dual-row wheel bearings with 26” tires

in stock now

FOR FULL PRODUCT SPECS

MARCH 21, 22 AND 23, 2018

ALL-AROUND

in stock now

VISIT CUBCADET.COM

Lawn & Garden Open House Saturday, April 28th 9am-2pm 387 Center Street Franklin, NY 13775 (607) 829- 2600 WWW.WHITESFARMSUPPLY.COM *Product Price – Actual retail prices are set by dealer and may vary. Taxes, freight, setup and handling charges may be additional and may vary. Models subject to limited availability. Specifications and programs are subject to change without notice. Images may not reflect dealer inventory and/or unit specifications. †† As rated by Kohler, all power levels are stated in gross horsepower at 3600 RPM per SAE J1940 ads rated by engine manufacturer. Utility vehicles are intended for off-road use. Cub Cadet Commercial products are intended for professional use. **See your local Cub Cadet Independent Dealer for warranty details. © 2018 Cub Cadet3PV_Q_ECOMMERCE

12 MARCH 21, 22 AND 23, 2018

GARAGES 6048 St. Hwy. 7, Oneonta/Colliersville www.amishbarnco.com (607) 432-0527 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Call Us!

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

Sheds, Cabins, Gazebos, Horse Barns, Chicken Coops & More!

FREE DELIVERY Within 100 Miles! Family Owned & Operated Since 2005!

SMALL

MEDIUM

LARGE

Delivered in 1 Piece

Quick 2 Day Build

Customize It Your Way!

Sizes up to 14x40! Starting at $5,900

Attic Truss Storage Available!

1, 2, 3 Car Garage!

Starting at $6,750 or

304

Per* Mo.

12 x 20 Deluxe Classic 24 x 24 One and a Half Story Garage Starting at $10,250 or

462

Per* Mo.

24 x 24 Two Story

One Story Garages Starting at $14,990

1 or 2 Story!

14 x 28 B&B Dutch

t Buil On Site

Starting at $7,559 or

340

Per* Mo.

12 x 24 Deluxe Cape *Monthly price based on our Rent-to-own option 48 month contract. First months rent & security deposit due before delivery.

24 x 38 One Story Garage

18 x 22 Two Story